Malloy said he is committed to a bipartisan approach. "Let's put it in perspective, we're talking about a little over one percent of the entire budget that needs to be adjusted. We are capable of doing that on a bipartisan basis. I firmly believe that, and we move forward."

Overall, the cuts would also work toward an anticipated $1.1 billion deficit in the budget set to take effect next July 1. Further details were expected to be released by Malloy's office this afternoon.

"We had a very good conversation," Cafero said. "What the governor has proposed is laying out a framework for a bipartisan solution to the problems we face and I think he's very sincere about having us all at the table to work out this."

Earlier in the week the governor met with majority Democrats, who control the House 99-52 and the Senate 22-14. Both sides will meet throughout next week in attempt to reach consensus when the special session of the Legislature meets on Dec. 19.

"There's a genuine desire on the governor's behalf and ours to try to solve this problem in a bipartisan manner," McKinney said. "I think we both made that very clear to each other and I think we've come together on a process in which we can make that happen."

Cafero said that while in the past Republicans have called for sharp spending cuts that were ignored by Democrats, the current deficit, ranging from $365 million to $417 million, necessitates a bipartisan solution.

"We've often called for cutting, but no one has ever said we relish the opportunity, nor is it easy," Cafero said. "I think my caucus knows it's a tough road ahead, but they also know it's something that we have to do."

McKinney and Cafero said that while it's a Democratic budget and associated shortfall, their minority caucuses were elected to work for taxpayers.

"We ran for office for a reason," McKinney. "We want to make our state a better place and we believe we have an important voice and important and good ideas that can help solve the problem. We want to be part of that. There's the added benefit of demonstrating to the people of Connecticut that we can actually get our business done in a bipartisan manner."